IET Real Estate Los Angeles Blog

Deadline Approaching for Los Angeles County Landlords to Apply for Rent Relief

Mom-and-pop landlords in Los Angeles County are facing a critical deadline as the window to apply for rent relief is rapidly closing. The county's Department of Consumer and Business Affairs has allocated $68.6 million in funding to assist qualifying landlords in offsetting the impacts of the pandemic and tenants who have been unable to pay rent.

The Rent Relief Program, launched in mid-December, offers grants of up to $30,000 per unit to eligible landlords for expenses incurred since April 1, 2022. The primary focus of this initiative is to provide support to small landlords who own up to four rental units. The overarching goal is to minimize tenant evictions, maintain the viability of small rental businesses, and ensure the availability of affordable housing in the county.

Landlords are encouraged to apply at lacountyrentrelief.com or by calling 877-849-0770. The application deadline is Jan. 12, and early submissions are strongly advised. Priority for assistance is given to landlords who can demonstrate significant financial distress, those serving the most vulnerable tenants, and properties located in areas of highest need, as identified by the L.A. County Equity Explorer Tool.

In addition to the rent relief program, the county supervisors have extended rent freezes until June while allowing for a 4 percent increase in rent during that time frame for rent-controlled units in unincorporated L.A. County. The Los Angeles City Council has also approved a plan allowing up to a 4 percent rent increase for rent-controlled apartments and up to 6 percent if landlords cover the cost of utilities.

With the application deadline looming and various measures in place to address rent stabilization, it is imperative for landlords to take action to ensure they can access the support available to them and navigate the evolving rental landscape in Los Angeles County.